Commercial Foundation Waterproofing Vancouver

Usually, yes. Most commercial and strata waterproofing projects can be planned so the entire property does not need to close.

For example, if excavation is required along one side of an apartment building, we can work on that section while keeping other entrances and common areas accessible. If the work affects a main entrance, loading area, driveway or parkade access, we identify that before work begins so access can be planned around the excavation.

Send us the property address, photos of where the water is appearing inside, and photos of the exterior directly outside that area.

If available, also send previous waterproofing reports, drainage inspections, building plans or information about past repairs. For example, knowing that a strata replaced one section of drain tile five years ago can help us understand what has already been done.

It could be either—or both. Water entering a parkade wall does not automatically mean the waterproof membrane is the only problem.

For example, damaged drain tile beside the foundation can allow water to build up against the wall. A crack or failed waterproofing system can then provide a path into the parkade. We look at where the water is entering and the drainage conditions around that section of the building before recommending the repair.

No. We only need to expose the section of foundation required for the waterproofing project.

For example, if water is entering along a 40-foot section of one foundation wall, it may not make sense to excavate the other three sides of the building. We determine the affected area first and plan the excavation around the actual problem.

Yes, depending on site conditions. Large trees, roots, shrubs and established landscaping can make access more complicated, but our team has excavation equipment for larger projects.

If a tree or root system prevents safe access to the foundation, it may need to be excavated around or removed before the trench can be opened. We assess those obstacles when planning the project rather than discovering them after work starts.

We show you the problem and explain the recommended repair before adding drainage work to the project.

This is important because excavation provides access to drainage that is normally buried. For example, if we expose the foundation and find a collapsed or disconnected section of drain tile beside the wall, it can make sense to repair that section before the trench is backfilled.

Yes. Larger projects can often be divided into sections when site conditions allow.

For example, we may complete one section of foundation, waterproof it, address the drainage and backfill it before moving to the next section. This can help manage access around entrances, parking areas, sidewalks and other areas that residents or businesses need to use.

For larger projects, we establish a point of contact so the property manager, strata representative or building owner knows who to communicate with about the work.

Before starting, important issues such as access, excavation areas, equipment placement and affected common areas can be reviewed with the building representative. If conditions change after excavation exposes the foundation, those findings can be communicated before additional work is undertaken.

That depends on what needs to be disturbed to reach the foundation. We identify affected surfaces as part of the project scope.

For example, waterproofing may require excavation through a landscaped bed, while another project may require access beside a concrete walkway or asphalt parking area. The estimate should clearly identify what excavation and restoration work is included so the property manager knows what will—and will not—be restored.

Yes. We can provide the estimate and scope of work for the proposed project, and before-and-after photos can document the work performed.

This is particularly useful when a property manager needs to explain the project to a strata council, building owner or other decision-makers. If your organization requires specific documentation before approving a contractor, tell us what is required when requesting the estimate.

Yes. Vancouver Underground Drainage Experts is WorkSafeBC covered and carries $2 million in liability insurance.

If your property management company requires proof of coverage or insurance documentation before a contractor can work on the property, request it from our office during the approval process.

Take photos or video of the water while the leak is occurring, if it is safe to do so, and send them to us with the property address.

Also photograph the exterior area directly outside the leak. Evidence collected during heavy rain can be extremely useful because water staining after everything dries does not always show exactly where or how the water was entering.